News Details

New Permit Required for Drone Use in Port Area

Unmanned aircraft system pilots need permission, insurance

October 26, 2017

New rules governing the use of unmanned aircraft systems — commonly known as drones — begin today, Oct. 26, in the Port of Long Beach, requiring pilots to obtain a permit before taking off or landing in the Harbor District.

Anyone wishing to take off or land a drone in the Harbor District must first obtain a permit from the Port of Long Beach’s Security Division. As part of the permit, the pilot must show proof of insurance, provide registration information and takeoff and landing plans, and obtain permission from occupants of any Port facilities to be overflown.

The new rules, approved as part of a recent tariff amendment by the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners, are aimed at heightening safety in and security of the Port, which is the second-busiest in the United States, with more than 2,000 ship calls and millions of truck trips each year.

“Our security, risk management, and commercial operations staff worked closely with the Long Beach City Attorney’s Office to develop a permitting process that focuses on the safe usage of drones in the Harbor District, within the allowable legal parameters of the Federal Aviation Administration,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “The approved rules, with requirements for insurance and notifications, should enhance our ability to maintain a safe environment for cargo operations in the Port.”

Drone pilots can find information on specific rules and requirements, and obtain usage permit applications online at www.polb.com/drones. Questions about the drone permit process can also be directed to sd-admin@polb.com or (562) 283-7800.

Once permits are obtained, the Port will post the plans for drone usage on the website, as a means of notifying Port tenants. To report a careless and reckless drone operator, please contact Harbor Patrol Dispatch at (562) 283-7820. Careless and reckless operators can also be reported to the Federal Aviation Administration Regional Office at (425) 227-1999 or 9-wsa-opsctr@faa.gov.